Why You Feel Hungry After Eating (and How to Fix It)

Have you ever finished a meal only to find yourself rummaging through the pantry an hour later? You’re not the only one, and it’s not just about willpower.

For many women over 40, hunger can feel unpredictable. Despite eating what seems like a decent meal, the hunger pangs return quicker than expected.

So, what’s going on?

Here are some common reasons:

1. Not Enough Protein

Protein is the most filling macronutrient, helping to stabilise blood sugar and keep you satisfied for longer. If your meals are low in protein, you might find yourself feeling hungry again not long after eating, even if you’ve had enough calories.

2. Meal Composition

If your meals are missing a good balance of protein, fibre, and healthy fats, they’re likely to digest quickly, leaving you hungry sooner. These nutrients are key to keeping you fuller for longer.

3. Ultra-Processed Foods

Highly processed foods can disrupt hunger and fullness signals, making it harder for your body to tell when it’s had enough. They’re often low in the nutrients that help keep hunger at bay.

4. Poor Sleep and Stress

Not getting enough sleep or dealing with ongoing stress can spike your hunger hormones, particularly ghrelin, which signals your body to eat more.

What Can You Do About It?

✔️ Focus on meals rich in protein, fibre, and healthy fats.

✔️ Minimise ultra-processed foods.

✔️ Prioritise good sleep and stress management.

✔️ Eat mindfully: slowing down helps your body register fullness.

Want more strategies to help manage hunger?

I created a free guide called Decode Your Hunger: Why Women Over 40 Feel Hungry and How to Fix It. It explains what’s happening inside your body, and what you can do to feel satisfied and in control again.

Grab your free copy here: [Download the guide]

Feeling hungry all the time isn’t something you have to just put up with, there are ways to get back in control.